http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b015mqp2

Saturday, February 24, 2007

A walk of seven miles under grey skies with a threat of rain(which never materialised)very muddy with swollen streams and waterlogged fields.A couple of hitches mapreading as the guide was over ten years old and orchards had been grubbed etc.However in the spring or summer when dry,this will be an enchanting walk.It took us over the Sussex border for a little while,and included a couple of hills withe very slippery paths to climb.At the end,in the village ofLamberhurst,we visited the Chequers Inn for a lunch of Chicken and Leek pie with loads of freshly cooked vegtables,exceptional quality,well worth a visit.

Thursday, February 22, 2007

As the Weather forecast predicted rain a short walk along the banks of the River Medway and back was decided upon.Starting at Aylesford bridge we followed the slippery and dangerous towpath along to Allington Lock Gates and the Malta Inn.It started dull but soon turned into a perfect spring day as the sun came out.No maps were needed as it was impossible to get lost.Approaching Maidstone ,the old factories had been replaced with blocks of apartments ,the sweet factory(candy)had gone and there was no longer a smell of cholcolate and sugar in the air.We called in at Elizabeths tea rooms and as you can see from the picture ,had meat pie with loads of vegetables.well worth a visit if in maidstone(Pudding lane!)

Wednesday, February 07, 2007

TOP;Inn at Offham 2 Oast houses used traditionally to dry hops the top is wind-oriented 3 Plaxtol Church graveyard 4 The quintain for lance practice on the village green

A cold -6C day with bright sunshine and no wind.Train from E.Malling to Borough Green and then back across country through Plaxtol Wood,and sundry byways and farms to Offham,where there is a quintain on the village green.We stopped for coffee on the park bench,and carried on through farmland into West Malling.We returned to the Five Pointed Star,where we had such good food and service last week.A log fire was burning in the grate,and it was nice and welcoming on a frosty morning.Back along Lavender Lane throught the fields to E.Malling,a quick visit to the church and then back to our starting point7.4 miles on the pedometer and about 3 or 4 hours on foot.